In a traffic emergency, what is the best course of action if you need to leave the road?

In a traffic emergency, maintaining control of the vehicle while minimizing the risk of skidding or losing control is crucial. The best course of action involves avoiding abrupt braking, which can lead to a loss of traction, especially if the road is wet or slippery. By choosing to avoid braking until your speed decreases to about 20 mph, you allow the vehicle to slow down gradually and reduce the likelihood of skidding or veering off the road uncontrollably. This approach provides a better chance of maneuvering the vehicle safely, especially if you're trying to steer off the road.

Monitoring your speed is important; once your speed is reduced, steering can become more manageable, allowing for a less drastic movement off the road. While it may seem intuitive to brake hard for a quick stop, such actions can lead to more dangerous scenarios in an emergency, making it essential to prioritize control and stability instead.